The Northern Lights in Spokane Tonight: Your Guide to Witnessing Nature’s Phenomenon

If you’re a nature lover, witnessing the northern lights or aurora borealis is something you must do at least once in your lifetime. The good news is that you don’t have to travel to Alaska, Norway, or Iceland to see this stunning sight. Spokane, Washington, is one of the best places in the lower 48 states to see the Northern Lights.

While the northern lights are not a common occurrence in Spokane, there are chances of catching the aurora display on some nights. In this post, we’ll explore the possibilities of seeing the northern lights in Spokane and share some tips to help you make the most out of your experience.

Understanding the Northern Lights

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a natural light display in the Earth’s sky. It is caused due to collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the earth’s atmosphere. These particles collide with the gases in the atmosphere, creating beautiful streaks of green, blue, yellow, and sometimes even pink or purple lights.

The northern lights are best viewed in areas with clear, dark skies with little to no light pollution. They are typically seen closer to the poles, but under the right conditions, they can be visible from other parts of the world.

The Right Conditions for Spotting the Northern Lights in Spokane

Spokane is situated at around 47.6 degrees latitude North – almost on the same parallel where the aurora borealis is most visible. For the Northern Lights to be visible in Spokane, the following conditions must be met:

Clear Skies

To see the aurora borealis, you need clear skies with minimal cloud cover. Cloud coverage blocks out the light from the Northern Lights, making it impossible to see them. You can check weather apps or websites like AccuWeather for accurate weather predictions.

Geomagnetic Storms

For the northern lights to be visible, a geomagnetic storm needs to take place. Geomagnetic storms occur when solar winds stir up the earth’s magnetosphere, causing the particles from the sun to collide with the gases in our atmosphere, creating the Northern Lights. You can check for geomagnetic storm forecasts through websites like NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.

Light Pollution

Light pollution refers to the presence of artificial light sources that can reduce the visibility of the Northern Lights. To avoid light pollution, consider finding an area where there is minimal street lighting or any other artificial light sources. One of the best places to watch the Northern Lights in Spokane is the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, which is located away from the city lights.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Spokane

The northern lights in Spokane are most visible during the late fall to early Spring, when the nights are longer and darker. The best time to see them is usually between 10 PM and 2 AM, but optimal viewing time can vary based on the conditions mentioned above.

Tips for Watching the Northern Lights in Spokane

Now that you know what to look for, here are some tips for witnessing the aurora borealis display in Spokane:

Stay Warm

The temperature at night can drop to freezing in Spokane, so dress appropriately and wear layers to stay warm.

Bring Essential Gear

Make sure you bring along essential gear like a quality camera and a tripod to capture the Northern Lights. A headlamp or flashlight will help you navigate through the area while providing minimal lighting that won’t affect your view of the Northern Lights.

Be Patient

The Northern Lights aren’t always visible, so be patient and wait for the right conditions. Bring a comfortable chair or blanket to sit on, and enjoy the beauty of the night sky while waiting.

Be Respectful

If you plan to visit the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, make sure you’re respectful of the habitat and keep noise levels minimal.

Conclusion

While seeing the northern lights in Spokane is not guaranteed, there are still chances to witness this beautiful natural phenomenon if the conditions are right. Remember to check for clear skies, geomagnetic storms, and reduce light pollution. Find the right viewing location and bring the essential gear to make the most of your experience. With patience and the willingness to explore, you too can experience the awe-inspiring glow of the Northern Lights in Spokane.